Join your English-speaking guide for a day-long excursion that begins with the bird's-eye-view of Niigata from the 31st floor of the Bandaijima Building, an international convention center that's the tallest building on the Sea of Japan. Once at the top, you can step out and witness the Shinanogawa River, Sado Island, and the Gozu mountain range. Next on the itinerary is a tour of the Niigata City History Museum, whose halls hold troves of items related to the city's 500-year-old history. Then, relax with a soba noodle lunch at a local restaurant followed by free time to explore the Pavilion of Charm and the Bazaar Pavilion, each dedicated to the history of rice and local products. Recharged, you can then finish the day with a stop at the North Culture Museum, the former 19th century villa of a well-to-do landowner. Finally, you'll return to your ship.